What could be done to improve poor gut health in a traveler?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 27-year-old male and have been going on long trips. I eat almost all the time from different restaurants. I feel that my gut health has been spoiled. Sometimes I get loose stools too. How do I know that the good gut bacteria is low? What are the symptoms? If so, how do we increase the good bacteria count? Can probiotics supplements be taken? What are the foods rich in probiotics, and how can I include them in my regular diet? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

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Your first query consult is on us!

When your body does not have enough good bacteria, bad bacteria can thrive. Digestive issues, like irritable bowel syndrome (an intestinal disorder causing pain in the stomach, diarrhea, constipation, and change in the appearance of stool), constipation, diarrhea, heartburn or bloating. The human ‘gut’, which is a generic word for stomach and intestines put together, is an incredibly complex ecosystem made up of innumerable micro-organisms living there, collectively called the ‘microbiome’. Serotonin is a hormone that affects our mood and sleep, and a majority of it is produced in the gut. A gut imbalance can disturb serotonin production, causing insomnia (sleeplessness) and poor sleep. Insomnia or poor sleep, in turn, causes fatigue and tiredness all through the day, along with increasing the risk for a condition called fibromyalgia (a condition with widespread muscle pain and tenderness).

Treatments include lowering your stress levels, getting enough sleep, eating healthy, eating slowly, staying hydrated, taking a prebiotic or probiotic, checking for food intolerances, and changing your diet. Berries and citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit, contain less fructose, making them easier to tolerate, and less likely to cause gas. Bananas are another low-fructose fruit that are fiber-rich and contain inulin, a substance that stimulates the growth of good bacteria in the gut.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you want some help.

Thank you.